Abu Dhabi Municipality has issued 66 offences and given fines of up to Dh10,000 for poor conditions at labour accommodation at construction sites in Al Wathba South.

The campaign was to ensure “decent and stable” living conditions for labourers and protect the rights guaranteed by national legislation with respect to “proper civilised accommodation”, said a statement by the municipality.

The campaign, launched on October 8, will uphold worker rights in Law No 16 from 2009, which regulates the construction of labour accommodation.

“The campaign illustrates the commitment of the Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities with the humanitarian values advocated by the UAE in dealing with all demography living on the UAE land,” said the statement.

Inspectors also checked company permits to build worker accommodation on construction sites.

Common offences at labour accommodation include inadequate safety, security and hygiene. Companies with large number of employees must provide a list of the workers and technicians and supporting documents that show they are housed in allocated accommodation. This is a precondition for the authentication of contracts, building permits and land applications.

A decree issued by the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation in July 2016 states that any business with more than 50 employees must provide free accommodation to workers who earn less than Dh2,000 a month.

Last year, the municipality launched a campaign against overcrowding in rooms. Labourers are guaranteed six square metres of space per person but accommodation visited by The National had up to 40 men sharing a room, each paying Dh300 per bed space.